How about Philly?

[Syrene-1]

I was very surprised to see, when typing in Philadelphia in the Advanced Search that absolutely nothing comes up! That's very strange since you can type in almost any other city in the world and you get something.



Philly is such a fun weekend get away for pretty much anyone that lives on the east coast - it's got so much to offer (history, nightlife, shopping, great museums).



Please consider adding some properties in Philly.

[bonniejoy03]

Hi Syrene-1. Great idea!! I am from Philly and my family lives there. Boy, wouldn't it be nice if the Four Seasons or the Rittenhouse were offered as properties? Also, there are more and more "boutique" hotels being added. It would be great to have them included. Yes, Philly and the surrounding area have so much; history, shopping ,beach close by (Atlantic City), museums, and GREAT restaurants. I second the vote for Philly properties!

[Syrene-1]

Bonnie,



My husband and I will actually be in Philly this weekend. There are so many good restaurants now I'm having trouble choosing. Can you recommend your favorite?



I want to get dressed up and order champagne and enjoy good food,good service and my husband's company. Do you know any restaurants that fit this bill?

[bonniejoy03]

Syrene-1. Great question. First, there is the traditional Bookbinders. This has been in business for (I think) 100 years! It is quite famous and a tradition in Philadelphia. For drinks or just a fun atmosphere, try Downey's Irish Pub. Lots of fun but not AS dressy as you might want. Now of course, if money is NO object and you want THE BEST, try Le Bec Fin. This is another tradition in Philly (you might want to call ahead to make sure they have reservations. I also think they opened a "sister " property in Atlantic City.)I think from what you describe, Le Bec Fin would be your choice.Have a great time. I'm listening to the weather now and the weekend is looking good!

[Syrene-1]

Thanks for the suggestions- it's funny, about a half hour ago I made reservations at Le Bec Fin! Why not?



Maybe we will stop in at Downey's for a drink.



Thanks again for your reply and suggestions. I will let you know how everything was when we get back!

[bonniejoy03]

Hi Syrene. Well, how was your trip to Philly? Did you stay overnight or can you do it as a daytrip? How was LeBec Fin? Did you find out if they opened another restaurant in Atlantic City? Did you get to Downeys and South Street for some evening fun? I'm interested in hearing about your trip.

[Syrene-1]

Hi Bonnie,



Just got back last night - great weekend! We stayed at the Four Seasons (very disappointing) and instead of going to Le Bec Fin we opted for Morimoto http://morimotorestaurant.com/. Have you been there yet? What an amazing place! I had the tasting menu that just blew me away - the freshness and creativity of the food was outstanding. Plus it's a really cool space.



We did stop by Downey's for a drink - thanks. Kind of stumbled upon it and took it as a sign of fate. Thanks again for the recommendation.



Also went to the Rodin museum - incredible.



All in all (aside from the hotel) it was a great weekend. What a fun town - I will be back.

[bonniejoy03]

Hi. Glad you enjoyed my home town! What happened with the Four Seasons. They have such an excellent reputation? I haven't heard of the other restaurant. We don't go to the fancier restaurants too much anymore. We typically stay in my family's neighborhood as they have gotten older. Next time you go to Philly you might want to try going a little outside the city to New Hope or some of the other pretty little towns along the Delaware. This will give you a nice mix between the city and the suburbs. Was the city crowded? Did you go down to the Delaware river area?

[Syrene-1]

Hi Bonnie,



If you're interested I posted a small review (low lights) on CitySearch about our experience at the Four Seasons http://philadelphia.citysearch.com/p...ladelphia.html.



I also wrote a letter to the CEO - let's see what happens.



YES! I have been to New Hope and LOVE it there! I actually fell in love there - some excellent memories.



Where do you go for your weekend get aways?

[bonniejoy03]

Hi Syrene. I read your post. Oh my goodness!! That is crazy. Maybe next time check out the small boutique type properties. I think the Rittenhouse Hotel might be something to look at. I can't believe about the "Amish" market ON SUNDAY!!!!!Never, no Sunday sales, etc with the Amish. For our weekend getaways, we visit my father in Philly. (He is in Northeast Philly, right on the border with Bucks County.) We sit by the river and relax (he's 85). We also like to visit Baltimore. (We live in Lancaster County. Amish country!) Baltimore is great for a weekend or day trip. You have the most amazing Italian Restaurants, Fells Points for antiques (and some places allow dogs!) Camden Yards for baseball, and great waterfront restaurants at the Harbour. (Did you know the Darling Harbour in Sydney Australia is modelled after Baltimore inner harbour!). Also for the weekend, we love to stay right in our area and drive in the country from farm to farm. We have the most amazing selections of flowers, fruits and vegetables. Its also a neat experience to go to the Amish farm and interact with the Amish. No electricity, very simple lifestyle, etc. This is pretty cool! Where are you located Syrene?